Truly Ginspired

ARice Beaufort horsebox, which was originally made in Leicester, has been given a new lease of life as a mobile gin bar. The aptly named Tin & Tonic is attending it’s first big event this Sunday, The Rutland Food and Drink Festival. Positioned in Oakham CastleGrounds, the bar will be serving a range of craft gins, paired with premium mixers and garnishes which complement the specific botanicals within each different blend.

Alice Brown, the owner of Tin & Tonic, said “We’re so excited to be up and running and share our love of gin with everyone at the festival”.

BACKGROUND

Who I am – Alice Brown, 28 –Syston, Leicester

What gave me the idea to set it up –

A few years ago, I saved up and was lucky enough to go travelling for two and a half years before making my way back home to Leicester. My itchy feet and wanderlust always had my brain ticking, thinking of what my next adventure would be. I have always wanted to own a bar and I am a huge gin lover, so I decided to make mydream come true and take the leap to combine my passion for gin with my love of people.

Why I choose to convert a horse box

I loved the idea of creating a mobile barfrom scratch and considered lots of different types of trailers. When I came across the Rice Beaufort horsebox which was originally made in Leicester, it just felt like the perfect fit.

The horsebox now has a new lease of life as a fully stocked specialist gin bar. With a contemporary twist, the grey exterior and warm midnight blue and copper interior offers something unique and quirky that will stand out and bring something a little different to any occasion.

I am currentlyalso developing an extension for the horsebox made from upcycled materials, which will provide a seating areafor customers.

What we serve – We serve a range of craft gins, paired with premium mixers and garnishes which complement the specific botanicals within each different blend. We are planning to initially stock around 10 artisan gins (including a number which are distilled locally) and feature a ‘Gin of the Month’ which will then be added to shelf. There are so many amazing gins out there, so we are on a mission to sample them all and find the best of the best! In addition to gin, we also serve prosecco, beer and premium soft drinks for those who prefer an alternative tipple. We’re happy to produce a bespoke menu for our customers events with drinks suited to their requirements.

What events we cater for – Tin & Tonic is a unique addition for any occasionavailable to hire for Weddings, Private Parties (such as birthdays, anniversaries, garden parties and hen dos), Corporate Events and Festivals. I shall also be introducing gin tasting events later on in the year.